Byelections often have a simple story and, beyond that, a broader political message.

The top line of this weekend’s Kiama byelection on the New South Wales south coast will be who replaces convicted rapist Gareth Ward as the local MP in Macquarie Street.

The premier, Chris Minns , and various ministers have made numerous visits to the seat, suggesting Labor is optimistic it will win on Saturday. The party has poured resources into the campaign.

Sign up: AU Breaking News email

Labor’s candidate, journalist Katelin McInerney, came close in the 2023 state election, securing 49.2 % of the two-party preferred vote. It won’t take a huge gain for her to get over the line this time, although there is always the risk, as in every byelection, that voters see it as an opportunity to kick the

See Full Page